Educator Certification

There are numerous routes to initial teacher certification in Kentucky that include traditional and nontraditional pathways. Select one of the links below to review the various pathways and find the best route for you.

• Applying for a New Certification in Kentucky

• Candidates Trained In Kentucky

• Candidates Trained Outside of Kentucky

• Candidates Trained Outside of the United States

• Candidates Trained Through an Out-of-State Online Program

Alternative Pathways

• Option 1: Exceptional Work Experience for Teaching Grades P-12

• Option 2: Local District Training Program for Teaching Grades P-12

• Option 3: College Faculty for Teaching Grades 8-12

• Option 4: Adjunct Instructor for Teaching Grades P-12

• Option 5: Veterans of the Armed Forces

• Option 6: University-Based Alternative Route for Teaching Grades P-12

• Option 7: Institute Alternative Route

• Option 8: Teach for America (TFA)

• Option 9: Expedited Route

Additional Certifications/Information

• Proficiency Evaluation

• Highly Qualified Route to Certification in Additional Areas

• Minority Educator Recruitment and Retention Program

• Certification Fees

• Kentucky Teaching Certificates

• Kentucky Administrative Regulation Related to Certification

• Substitute Teacher Certification

• Emergency Substitute Certification

• Substitute Teacher Certification Renewal

• School Principal Certification

• School Counselor Certification, Grades P-12

• Superintendent Certification

• Supervisor of Instruction Certification

• Director of Special Education Certification

• Directors and Assistant Directors of Pupil Personnel Certification